Paul Pierce, the movement in his left knee greatly improved, ran through most of today’s practice. Barring a flare-up in the knee, which has been drained twice and treated with antibiotics for an infection, the Celticscaptain expects to pay in tomorrow night’s game in Miami.

Doc Rivers, back from a day off to tend to personal business, said that though Rajon Rondo (hamstring) participated in today’s walk-through activities, the point guard is merely possible for the Miami game. Kendrick Perkins and Eddie House spent the morning in bed with the flu, though Perkins had improved enough by this afternoon that Rivers expected the center to make the flight to Miami.

House, with a more serious case, is considered doubtful for tomorrow night’s game.